Why is tilling discouraged for aeration?

Tilling disrupts essential soil ecosystems, yielding only temporary benefits in aeration. This process breaks down naturally occurring soil aggregates, destroying the fungal networks that are essential to cycling nutrients. Core aeration preserves these structures while forming channels for water and roots to move vertically through the soil. To achieve soil health, avoid practices that disrupt the soil ecosystem.

By bringing dormant seeds to the surface, tilling can cause a weed explosion. With each pass, thousands of dormant weed seeds will react to sunlight and moisture. Core aeration will leave seeds buried deep in a dormant state. With the proper technique, you will spend less time weeding and more time enjoying your garden.

In tilled soils, organic matter goes missing more quickly due to increased rates of decomposition. Beneficial nutrients volatilize into the atmosphere instead of being absorbed by plants. Core aeration sustains carbon reserves, also improving nutrient accessibility. Additionally, plants become more resistant to disease when they have adequate organic matter levels.

Depending on your needs and experience, gradually implement core aeration practices and be observant of results. Begin with spot treatments, removing cores only in compacted areas, using manual tools. Compost can be added to the vacuum holes during aeration to provide the microbes with something to feed on. At the end of the second season, water retention will be improved and plant vigor will increase proportionately, without major tillage.

Read the full article: How to Aerate Soil Like a Pro